Miguel Mendoza had served his country with unwavering integrity for over three decades. He had raised his son Ricardo with the same standards of respect and honor he had learned in the military. Seeing Ricardo strike Camila, a new mother, in a moment that should have been filled with joy, was a jarring revelation. The tears in Camila’s eyes mirrored the disappointment and anger that welled up inside Miguel.
As Ricardo continued to placate the situation with his deceit, Miguel felt a steely resolve solidify in his heart. He had always hoped Ricardo would become the man he had tried to be—strong, respectful, empathetic—but witnessing his son’s brutality shattered that illusion. Miguel knew he couldn’t stand by idly. He had to take action, for Camila, for little Leonardo, and even for Ricardo, who was clearly lost in a cycle of harmful behavior.